Dr. Garbens is a urologist based in Ontario with a clinical focus on minimally invasive treatments for urologic conditions. As the founder of Élevé, she leads a multidisciplinary team dedicated to delivering personalized, comprehensive care for pelvic health and overall wellness. Through cross-specialty collaboration and promoting research in common urological conditions, Dr. Garbens’ goal is to continually improve patient outcomes and the patient experience. She provides consults on Virtual Hallway to help physicians provide timely care.

Here is what she has to say:

What first drew you to start using Virtual Hallway, and how has it fit into your clinical workflow as a specialist?

"It can be difficult for patients to see a urologist, and for non-cancer concerns, patients often have to wait over a year. Many of these issues are non-surgical, and with the right help and education, certain treatments could be started by the family doctor. Virtual Hallway has created a way for family doctors to receive guidance on the urgency of a urological concern, as well as recommendations for starting certain treatments (where appropriate) while the patient waits to be seen."

Have there been any moments on Virtual Hallway that really stood out, where you felt your advice made a meaningful impact on patient care?

"There have been a few instances where, after discussion, the physician was able to avoid sending a consult. In other cases, recommendations for more urgent consultations were made."

How would you describe Virtual Hallway in three words?

"Efficient. Collaborative. Supportive."

What do you think makes those synchronous conversations more effective or efficient than asynchronous options?

"Allows you to connect to the actual physician. You can hear their voice, get an idea of their personality. Unfortunately now with the digital world, we don’t get to speak or see physicians like we used to, this is a nice compromise. Often we can also talk about other things and I learn some fun things about my colleagues."

What’s one thing you wish more people knew about how urologists can support PCPs, especially through a platform like this?

"A lot of urology is non-surgical and urological issues are COMMON. A platform like this gives education, tools and confidence to family doctors so they can start treatments for patients (ex. Vaginal estrogen, BPH medications) which can often improve patients symptoms so they no longer need to see us. I love teaching patients and doctors about vaginal therapy for UTIs and GSM."

Do you have any current areas of clinical or research focus that you’re especially passionate about?

"Yes! I'm currently developing a patient education library, as I believe education is a cornerstone of effective treatment. In addition, I'm initiating studies on the role of the vaginal microbiome in various urogynecological conditions and collaborating with microbiologists to explore this important area further."

If you were speaking to a colleague who hasn’t tried Virtual Hallway yet, what would you want them to know?

"It’s easy, it’s quick, it helps fill the gap of patient care. Try it!"

What are the top three question you often get asked in Urology by PCPs on Virtual Hallway?

1. Referral for microscopic hematuria.
2. Renal cysts/masses or imaging findings.
3. PSA screening

And some bonus questions that are just for fun...

Do you have any healthcare icks?

"Bellybutton hygiene. Please clean it."

What’s a non-medical skill you’re surprisingly good at?

"I used to be good at drawing. I haven't had much time to do this since I became a doctor. I do have a good sense of humour. Luckily, most urologists do."

Is there a show, book or podcast you are into at the moment?

"I really like the Curbsiders Podcast, great educational tool and I highly recommend it."

Dr. Garbens is available to book on Virtual Hallway